In 2024, What to do if your iPhone 11 has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

What to do if your Apple iPhone 11 has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

Many people have iPhones but don’t know what an IMEI number is or what a bad ESN represents. Understanding how to tackle this issue can save time, money, and a headache or two. In this extensive guide, we’ll walk you through the basic mechanics of ESN and IMEI, how to check if your Apple iPhone 11 is blacklisted, and the detailed steps for unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

Part 1: Basic information about IMEI number and ESN

What is IMEI number?

IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity): IMEI numbers are unique to GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) network mobile phones. Unlike ESN, an IMEI number is 15 digits long. It serves as an anti-theft measure, meaning a blacklisted IMEI can result from a device being reported lost or stolen or a breach of the consumer agreement.

What is an ESN?

Electronic Serial Number (ESN): Previously utilized by CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) networks, an ESN was a unique identifier for cellular devices. With technological progression, most carriers have shifted their focus to the IMEI system, but knowing your ESN’s history is still crucial, especially if you’re dealing with older devices.

What is a Bad ESN?

A Bad ESN can mean a lot of things, let’s check out some examples:

If you hear this term most probably you are trying to activate the Apple iPhone 11 device with a carrier, but that’s not possible due to some reasons.
It can mean that the previous owner of the Apple iPhone 11 device switched carriers.
The previous owner had an outstanding amount on their bill and cancelled the account without paying the bill first.
The previous owner didn’t have a bill when they cancelled the account but they were still under a contract and if you cancel sooner than the due date for the contract, an “early termination fee” is created based on the remaining period of the contract and they hadn’t paid that amount.
The person that sold you the phone or someone else who was the actual owner of the Apple iPhone 11 device reported the Apple iPhone 11 device as lost or stolen.

What is a blacklisted IMEI?

Blacklisted IMEI is basically the same thing as Bad ESN but for devices that work on CDMA networks, like Verizon or Sprint. In short, the main reason that a device has a Blacklisted IMEI is so that you as the owner or someone else cannot activate the Apple iPhone 11 device on any carrier, not even the original one, thus avoiding selling or stealing the phone.

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Part 2: How to check if your Apple iPhone 11 is blacklisted?

In order to check if an iPhone is blacklisted, you need to first retrieve your IMEI or ESN number to check if it’s blacklisted.

How to find the IMEI or ESN numbers

On the original box of the iPhone, usually around the barcode.
In Settings, if you go to General > About, you can find the IMEI or ESN.
On some iPhones, it’s in the SIM card tray when you pull it out.
Some iPhones have it engraved on the back of the case.
If you dial *#06# on your dial pad you will get the IMEI or ESN.

How to verify if your Apple iPhone 11 is blacklisted?

Checking if your Apple iPhone 11 has a blacklisted IMEI is the first step in addressing the issue. There are several methods to do this, either via the Apple website, the network carrier, or through third-party IMEI check services.

Apple’s Blacklist Status Tool: Operating directly from Apple’s official website, entering your IMEI number can provide instant clarity on its status.
Network Carrier Services: Another way is to contact the carrier that the Apple iPhone 11 was initially sold from. Finding out is easy, just look for a logo: on the box of the iPhone, on the back case of it and even on the screen of the Apple iPhone 11 as it boots up. Just look for any carrier, Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile, etc. Contacting your network carrier can also yield a blacklist status. Bear in mind that not all network services are equally adept or willing to communicate this information, and turnaround times may vary.
Third-Party IMEI Check Services: Utilizing third-party IMEI checkers is often the quickest method. These can be found as online services or apps, but it’s important to choose reputable sources. This is a highly recommended source to check the status of your phone because it’s quick, reliable and offers no fuss. You just go to the page, enter the IMEI or ESN, enter your contact details, and you’ll soon receive all the information you need!

Part 3: What to do if your Apple iPhone 11 has bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

A bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI is serious business. It can result in a device being unusable on most of the surrounding networks. If your IMEI is blacklisted, there are steps for potential resolution:

Ask the seller for a refund

If you bought the Apple iPhone 11 device with the bad ESN newly from a retailer or online shop, you might be in luck as they can provide you with a refund or at least a replacement, depending on their policy. For example, Amazon and eBay have refund policies. Unfortunately, if you got the phone from someone you found on the street, or from a seller over sources like Craigslist, this might not be possible. But there are still other things you can do.

Use it as a gaming console or iPod

Smartphones have a whole lot of functionality besides being able to place calls. You can install a bunch of different video games in it, you can use it to surf the internet, watch videos over YouTube, download music and videos to it. You could even use it as an iPod. The possibilities are really endless. You can even install apps like Skype and use Skype call as an alternative to a phone call.

Report of the Issue to the Police

If you suspect fraud or a theft may have been involved, filing a report can be necessary.

Get the IMEI or ESN Cleaned

Depending on your carrier, you can see if they entertain requests to remove your IMEI from the blacklist. IMEI cleaning services exist, offering to remove the blacklisted status. However, proceed with caution, as this is often in a gray legal area.

Swap the Logic Board

The thing about a blacklisted IMEI is that it’s only blacklisted in a particular country. An unlocked AT&T iPhone blacklisted in the US would still function in Australia on another network. As such you can try and change the chips of your Apple iPhone 11. However, in doing so you should be prepared for some possible irreparable damage.

Unlock it and then Sell it

After your unlock your Apple iPhone 11 you can sell it to foreigners at a lowered rate. You can find out how to unlock in the next steps. But why would foreigners buy a blacklisted phone, you might ask? That’s because they won’t be on US soil long, and the IMEI is only blacklisted locally. So foreigners and tourists might be persuaded to buy your Apple iPhone 11 if you throw in a big enough discount.

Take it apart and sell the spare parts

You can dismember the logic board, screen, dock connector and back casing, and sell them separately. These may be used to help out other broken iPhones.

Sell internationally

As mentioned earlier, you can unlock the phone with the blacklisted IMEI. However, since it’s only blacklisted locally, you can sell it internationally where it would still have value.

Flash phone to another carrier

This is an ideal option for those who don’t mind changing carriers. You can flash the phone to another carrier, as long as they accept it, and pretty soon you’ll have a functional phone! However, in some cases, you might land with a 3G connection instead of a 4G.

Determine Hybrid GSM/CDMA Phones

If your phone cannot activate on a CDMA carrier like Verizon or Sprint, the IMEI can still be used on a GSM network. Most phones manufactured these days come with a GSM standard nano or micro sim card slot and have GSM radio enabling for a GSM network. Most of them also come factory unlocked as well.

Having a phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI is naturally a headache, however, all hope isn’t lost. You can do any of the things mentioned in the previous steps, and you can read on to find out how to unlock the phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

Part 4: How to unlock a phone with bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI?

Unlocking a phone with bad ESN or a blacklisted IMEI is not a single-step process. It involves both technological and legal maneuvering. It’s important to note that unlocking a blacklisted phone might not make it fully operational, but it can help in using it with carriers outside the country where it was blacklisted.

Understanding Lock Status

Before proceeding, ensure you understand the lock status of your phone. If the phone is network locked, it only works with a specific carrier. If it is blacklisted, it’s barred from most network use. An unlocked phone, on the other hand, is a blank slate ready to work with any carrier that supports the Apple iPhone 11 device’s technological specifications.

Steps to Unlock

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the steps to unlock a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI:

Ascertain Legality: Ensure unlocking your phone is within the bounds of the law, both locally and globally. Legal provisions such as the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) in the US and similar laws elsewhere define the circumstances under which phone unlocking is legal.
Contact the Carrier: If the blacklisting issue has been resolved, contacting the carrier who blacklisted the Apple iPhone 11 device is the most straightforward way to unlock it. They may require clear documentation proving ownership of the Apple iPhone 11 device and the resolution of the reason for blacklisting.
Consider Third-Party Services: If your phone was blacklisted from a carrier in a different country where unlocking might be a common practice, third-party services can assist. Verify that they are reputable and have a solid track record, as well as a range of positive reviews from previous customers.
IMEI Repair and Unlock Tools: Some advanced users may consider IMEI repair software or unlock tools. However, utilizing these services could be illegal or fraudulent unless you are a certified technician who can verify the legitimacy of the software being used and the legality of the method in your region.
Seek Professional Repair Centers: If all else fails, there are mobile repair shops that specialize in this type of work. It’s important to vet these services thoroughly, and ensure they are trained in such repairs and have a history of success.

Considerations and Warnings

Device Warranty: Unlocking a phone could void its warranty. Consider the cost-benefit of unlocking versus keeping the Apple iPhone 11 device under warranty.
Legal Ramifications: Unauthorized unlocking can have legal repercussions. It’s important to research and ensure compliance with all relevant laws.
Financial Risks: Some services come at a high cost, and there are scams in the market. Be cautious and only deal with recognized and trusted entities.

Part 5: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I find out if this iPhone is reported as lost or stolen? I mean which one is it?

This information is anonymous to carriers and no one will be able to tell you exactly.

Q: I have a friend who wants to sell me an iPhone, how do I check if it has a bad ESN or if it’s lost or stolen before I buy it?

You will need to check the IMEI or ESN.

Q: I am the owner of the Apple iPhone 11 and I reported it as lost some time ago and I found it, can I cancel it?

Yes, you can but most carriers will ask you to go to a retail store with at least one valid ID.

Q: I dropped My Apple iPhone 11 and the screen cracked. Does it now have a bad ESN?

Hardware damage has no relation with an ESN. So your ESN status will remain unchanged.

Q: Is it Legal to Unlock a Phone with a Bad ESN or Blacklisted IMEI?

The legality of unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI varies from country to country and can be influenced by specific case laws. However, in cases where the user is the original owner and the phone is paid off, it’s typically legal to unlock the Apple iPhone 11 device.

Q: Can You Use a Blacklisted Phone Internationally?

In some cases, a blacklisted phone can be used internationally. When a phone is blacklisted, it’s typically barred from the carrier network where the blacklist was applied. However, different countries have different national blacklists, so it’s possible that a phone blacklisted in one country will work in another. Unlocking the phone internationally can be an option here.

Q: Can IMEI Cleaning Really Work?

IMEI cleaning is the process by which the IMEI’s blacklisted status is removed. There are services that offer to clean your IMEI, and while some may work, it’s important to understand the legality and efficacy of such services, as it may involve fraudulent activity and your phone may still not be fully operational on some networks even after being cleaned.

Q: What Consequences Can I Face by Using a Blacklisted Phone?

Using a blacklisted phone can have various consequences. It’s unlikely to work on the network of the carrier where it was blacklisted, and the reliability of third-party carriers might be limited. Additionally, there may be legal implications, especially if the phone was blacklisted for being reported lost or stolen.

Q: Should I Buy a Phone with a Bad ESN or Blacklisted IMEI?

It’s generally not advisable to purchase a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI, as it would be difficult to use on most networks. Such devices are often sold at lower prices, but the risks and limitations associated with them might not be worth the discount.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI presents a unique set of challenges. The complexity of resolving the issue hinges on various factors including the reasons for blacklisting, the phone model, and the networks involved, among others. The best approach is often a mix of legal recourse, communication with carriers, and potentially seeking the assistance of professional technicians or legal counsel. Always research thoroughly and seek advice from reliable sources when taking the significant step of unlocking a phone with a bad ESN or blacklisted IMEI.

So now you know everything there is to know about IMEI, bad ESN, and blacklisted iPhones. You also know how to check their status using the handy Dr.Fone webpage or through contacting your carrier. And in case your Apple iPhone 11 is erroneously locked and you can’t access it, we’ve also shown you how to unlock it using the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) service tool.

If you have any other questions not covered in our FAQ section, please feel free to leave us a comment. We look forward to hearing from you.

How To Unlock The Apple iPhone 11 SIM Lock: 4 Easy Methods

Is your Apple iPhone 11 locked to a specific carrier? Losing a complete hold of your Apple iPhone 11 is very frustrating. You can’t use a SIM card from a different network. Keep calm because you have the chance to learn about the tools you can use to unlock your Apple iPhone 11.

In this article, we’ll talk about the two ways to find out if your phone is SIM-locked and four ways to unlock Apple iPhone 11, including Software that can quickly unlock your phone by following a few simple steps. After you read this article, the carrier options are much more available.

How to Check the SIM Lock Status on Apple iPhone 11

Check the “Network Provider Lock”

Before you go for a solution to unlock your Apple iPhone 11, you should first know the nature of the lock on your device. So, you should check the lock following the methods below.

Check it via “Carrier Lock” in “Settings.”

Go to Settings > General > About.

Apple has added a new section to iOS 14 called Network Provider Lock that immediately tells you the Apple iPhone 11 device’s status.

Scroll down until it immediately tells you the Apple iPhone 11 device’s status section. “No SIM restrictions” should appear on the screen if the Apple iPhone 11 is unlocked. Seeing something else means that the Apple iPhone 11 is locked.

Try a SIM card from another carrier

Follow the steps below:

Switch off your Apple iPhone 11
Open the SIM Tray with a straight pin and take out the SIM card.
Put the SIM card from a different provider into the iPhone’s sim card slot. Put the tray back where it belongs.
Turn on the iPhone.
Call any phone number that works. Your Apple iPhone 11 is locked if you get an error message. If you can make the call and connect, your Apple iPhone 11 is unlocked.

What are the prerequisites for an Apple iPhone 11 SIM lock?

(Verizon/AT&T/T-Mobile as example)

How to unlock the Apple iPhone 11 locked by Verizon

To prevent theft and other types of fraud, Verizon locks new devices to only work on the Verizon network. The company has different rules for unlocking prepaid and post-pay devices, as well as special rules for people in the military who are distributed.

“Unlocking” a device means turning off Software that would stop a customer from trying to use a device made for one carrier’s network on another carrier’s network. Due to different technologies, a Verizon Wireless device that has been unlocked may only work partially on another carrier’s network.

Verizon’s Policy for unlocking Post-pay devices

If you buy a phone from Verizon, it will be locked for 60 days after you buy it. If you buy a device from one of their authorized retailers, it will be locked for 60 days after it is activated.

After 60 days, the lock will be taken off itself unless the Apple iPhone 11 device is found to be stolen or was bought through fraud. After 60 days, their phones are never locked again.

Unlocking Verizon’s Prepaid Device

After activation, devices you buy from Verizon and some devices you buy from one of their authorized retailers are locked for 60 days. After 60 days, the lock will be taken off itself unless the Apple iPhone 11 device is found to be stolen or was bought through fraud. After the first 60 days, their phones are locked, but after that, they never lock them again.

Military Personnel Placement Unlocking Policy

If you are in the military and a Verizon Wireless customer, in case, you get orders to move outside of the Verizon Coverage Area. The company will unlock your device and stop your service if you ask, even if it has only been 60 days since you bought it.

How to unlock the Apple iPhone 11 locked by AT&T

First, you should know that AT&T customers can only unlock a certain number of devices yearly. If a customer’s account is in good shape, they can unlock up to five devices per account per year. You can find out how to unlock an AT&T device and if you meet the requirements on the AT&T support page.

AT&T Unlocking security question

The person’s full name as it appears on the account
The account holder’s last four digits of their social security number
The AT&T passcode of the person whose name is on the account if that person has an online account.

How to unlock the Apple iPhone 11 locked by T-Mobile

T-Mobile has set up several requirements that must be met for an unlock request to be processed.

The device has to be paid off in full, and the account has to be in good shape.
In the past year, less than two SIM unlock codes have been
The device had been connected to the T-Mobile network for at least 40 days before someone asked for it to be unlocked.
You have a service contract and have paid for at least 18 months in a row, or you paid a fee for moving. There are a few special situations that Customer Service can tell you more about if you need to.
The phone must have at least $50 worth of recharges paid for on prepaid plans.
If you meet the above requirements, you can call T-customer Mobile’s service at 611 from the Apple iPhone 11 11 or 12 you want to unlock and ask them to unlock it.

When you call, make sure you have ALL of the following:

The phone number of the main account holder
Account Password
The last four digits of the account holder’s SSN.
The IMEI number. Find it by going to Settings > General > About or pressing *#06#.

DoctorSIM

DoctorSIM has services that can be used to unlock a cell phone. This site lets you unlock phones from many brands, not just Apple. The services they provide make most of their customers very happy.

So, this site has been able to gain customers’ trust by providing excellent unlocking services. Many happy customers have given this site a 4.7 rating on the Trust pilot. The price of these devices depends on the brand and model. However, they have some pros and cons.

Pros & Cons

Pros

It can unlock almost all brands, including Apple, even some that aren’t as well-known.
A powerful and effective tool that can unlock 99% of all phones.

Cons

It can take up to seven days to unlock a device.
Some reviews say that the service from DoctorSIM doesn’t work.

Contact your carrier to unlock it with the IMEI code

When a customer deals an agreement with a large cell phone company for a certain amount of time, they usually get a discount on a device. Because of this, the Apple iPhone 11 device has a controller lock, so customers can only use it on their network. You can leave without paying anything if your contract with the company is over. Before you can unlock your Apple iPhone 11, you have to do the following:

First, it has to be legal. It means the Apple iPhone 11 device has not been reported as lost, stolen, or linked to a crime.

Then your bank account shouldn’t have any debts. If you signed a contract in exchange for a lower price upfront, you would have to wait until your contract was up (usually 24 months) or pay the remaining balance if you bought your phone on a payment plan. Each company has its way of unlocking.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

You have read the part about some ways to remove the SIM lock from Apple iPhone 11. If they are too complicated, you have another chance. Dr.Fone-Screen Unlock provides a direct method to unlock your SIM card.

Step1: First of all, Download and install the Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Step2: In the main interface of Dr.Fone, please go for “Screen Unlock.”

Step3: Tap “Remove SIM Locked” in the following box to unlock your device’s network.

Step4: Tap “Start” as the beginning when your iOS device is prepared to be SIM unlocked.

Step5: When the Apple iPhone 11 is connected, the software detects it and displays a list of details. Verify all shown parts are in place before clicking “Unlock Now.”

Step6: Jailbreaking your Apple iPhone 11 is required before proceeding with the process. This approach is compatible with iPhones 5S and up running iOS versions 12.0 to 14.8.1. Therefore, in order to learn about technology, you must either read the manual or watch the video.

Step7: This step needs you to manipulate your SIM card and your network. Please be careful about the adjustment of all network settings.

Step8: You can put your phone down now. The rest part is automatic.

Step9: The device can now be used without any limitations imposed by the SIM carrier because it has been unlocked. To unlock the SIM card on your iOS device, tap the “Done” button.

The Bottom Line

So, these are the ways to find out if your Apple iPhone 11 is locked and the four ways to unlock it if it is. You can get your Apple iPhone 11 unlocked by calling your carrier. This is the official way to get rid of restrictions. If you don’t want to use this method, you can unlock your Apple iPhone 11 using some online websites.

But Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is one of the most trustworthy and easy-to-use programs that lets you unlock your device by taking a few simple steps.

How to Unlock Apple iPhone 11 with IMEI Code?

If you have a locked iPhone, we have different methods that entail how to unlock iPhone with IMEI code. Apart from this, we have two separate unlocking methods which usually confuse a good number of people. These methods are Sim Unlock and iCloud activation lock bypass. The difference between the two is that the Sim unlock method involves unlocking the sim lock while the iCloud activation revolves around unlocking the automatic iCloud activation security feature.

If you want to know how to unlock iPhone with IMEI number and how to bypass iCloud lock, I have with me two different methods that will unlock your locked iPhone in a span of days as long as you follow the required steps.

Part 1: What is IMEI code? How to find IMEI Code on iPhone?

Each and every phone comes with a unique 15-digit code that differentiates it from other devices. This unique code acts as determinant or a tracking number when you happen to lose your phone. For those with iPhones, you can retrieve this unique number in different ways. The following are some of them.

1.1 Dial *#06#

This is the primary method of checking your IMEI code on almost all devices. On your dial pad, dial *#06# and press the call icon. Your unique code will be displayed immediately.

1.2 The Sim Tray

Another way of retrieving your IMEI code is by removing your Sim Card tray. In most devices especially iPhone 4, this number is usually located on the Sim tray.

1.3 The Back of the Phone

If you are operating on an iPhone 5, 5C, SE, 6, or 6S, you can retrieve your unique code at the back of your Apple iPhone 11.

Part 2: How to unlock iPhone SIM Card with IMEI Code?

DoctorSIM Unlock Service gives you the freedom to unlock your previously locked iPhone and render it useable for different network providers.

If you have a locked iPhone 7 and you want to unlock it, this is a detailed method on how to unlock iPhone 7 via its IMEI number using DoctorSIM Sim Unlocking services.

Step 1: Visit Site and Choose Phone Brand

Visit the official DoctorSIM Sim unlocking website and select your phone brand from the long list of brands supported by the unlocking service. You will be in a position to see the screenshot below.

Step 2: Select Phone Model and Network Carrier

A new web page will open up. From this new web page, scroll down the page and enter your phone model, country of origin, and your network provider. Once you are done, the amount of money to be charged for the services will be displayed on your right-hand side.

Step 3: Enter IMEI Number and Contact Details

Scroll down the page and enter your Apple iPhone 11 7 IMEI number as well as your email address. Check the box next to the “T&Cs” and click on the “Add to Cart” option.

Step 4: Pay and Wait

Once you have made your payment, the code to unlock your Apple iPhone 11 7 will be generated within a period of 1-2 business days. You will be notified via email once this code has been generated. When you get this email, switch Sim cards and enter a new one from a different carrier. When prompted to enter a code, enter the one that was sent to you. As simple as it is, that’s how you can unlock iPhone 7 using its IMEI number.

Part 3: How to remove the SIM lock by yourself?

Unlock iPhone with IMEI is a free and official method. However, it may cost almost 7 days to get a response. For many users, they want to unlock SIM card lock as soon as possible. Luckily, Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) could help unlock all kinds of network issues for iPhone. Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) stands out as an advanced and user-friendly tool designed to unlock iOS devices seamlessly. With its intuitive interface and broad iPhone model support, it has become a preferred choice for users looking to remove their iPhone SIM lock.

Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS)

Fast SIM Unlock for iPhone

Supports almost all carriers, from Vodafone to Sprint.
Finish SIM unlock in just a few minutes
Provide detailed guides for users.
Support newly released models from iPhone 5S to iPhone X.

3981454 people have downloaded it

Step-by-Step Guide to Unlocking SIM Lock on iPhone? [Any Carrier]

Unlocking your Apple iPhone 11 SIM lock with Dr.Fone - Screen Unlock (iOS) is a straightforward process. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Install Dr.Fone program and launch Screen Unlock. Continue under Toolbox > Screen Unlock > iOS to launch the tool on a new window.

Step 2: Within the ‘Screen Unlock’ feature, choose ‘Remove SIM Locked‘ to initiate the SIM unlocking process.

Step 3: Click Unlock Now to continue. Dr.Fone will guide you through the process with clear on-screen instructions. Follow the prompts to unlock your Apple iPhone 11’s SIM card.

Step 4: With the unlocking process completed, you now have unrestricted access to your Apple iPhone 11, and the SIM lock is successfully removed.

You must want to know more about our amazing services. Click on our iPhone SIM Unlock guide to learn more.

Conclusion

From the information gathered in this article, we can comfortably state that it’s easy to unlock your Apple iPhone 11 regardless of the model you are using. Whether you want to know how to unlock iPhone with IMEI number or to simply know how to unlock iPhone using IMEI code, the methods mentioned above will no doubt see you through each and every step when unlocking your Apple iPhone 11.